Tiger-McIlroy Comparisons Inevitable

August 23, 2012

Mark J. Terrill/AP

A moment: McIlroy in a Wednesday news conference noticing Woods had arrived in the back of the tent and a question about whether he wanted to face in singles at the Ryder Cup next month. "Yeah, I'd love to go out there," McIlroy said. "I'd love Tiger to go out first and kick his ass."

The best humor is always underpinned by the truth.

A Thursday morning in the first tournament of the 2012 FedEx Cup playoffs isn't Sunday at the Ryder Cup or certainly at a major championship, but it is what's available. The best against the best at their best, a la Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus 35 years ago, is what we can hope for while knowing golf is historically stingy with such marquee showdowns. When they happen, they're extra special.